In 2014, IDP Foundation pledged to support Lurie Cancer Center through the creation of this program. Competitive grants are awarded to scientists and clinicians that are asking novel research questions about cancer. Consistent with the IDP Foundation mission, Research Innovation Challenge Grants act as “seed capital” so that scientists can collect enough preliminary data to apply for larger grants, like those from the National Institute of Health, as they gather their research. Furthermore, these research initiatives are collaborative and cross-disciplinary, presenting the opportunity to hear from the variety of perspectives necessary to conceive new treatments and cures.

Northwestern has been conducting cancer research since the center was opened in 1974. In 1997, they were awarded with the National Cancer Center’s esteemed “comprehensive” designation. Only 45 cancer centers in the nation have been awarded this designation, which exemplifies commitment to a holistic approach to treatment in terms of research, patient care, education, and community outreach. Lurie Cancer Center is a member of the Big Ten Cancer Research Consortium and a founding member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network.

A full report on the work accomplished by the 2015 Challenge Grant Recipients can be found below. The 2016 grant recipients, as well as their projects, can be found here.